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Macatrao, who currently works as an environmental scientist with CalRecycle, said having a cohort allowed her to succeed despite the difficulties of the demanding schoolwork. She found the close connections she made within the program to be most valuable and supportive of her personal and professional growth. Although there were some growing pains involved with being a part of the first cohort, Macatrao feels that the program has a promising future, stating, “I have a lot of hope for the program. I think it fills a very particular niche and its emphasis on catering to working professionals makes it truly unique.”   

Macatrao can now take what she has learned in the program into her work at CalRecycle, where she is making an impact by supporting the implementation of SB 1383, a state law mandating the expansion of organic waste diversion.

Anderson, who has a background in science, had not originally considered sustainability as a career field but decided to pursue the MSSMP degree with the intention of creating a positive change.  

During the pandemic, she thought about what she wanted to do in her future and realized her underlying driving passion was rooted in the desire to be of service and to leave the world a better place than she found it.  

She was able to explore the diverse ways in which sustainability could be incorporated into a career after being mentored by Alben Phun and Holli Fajack, two of the professional advisory board members.  Anderson is committed to helping future students in the program succeed and suggests that “cohort alumni return to share their experiences with new cohorts, helping them understand how they can secure jobs and use their program degree effectively.” 

Palmer was inspired to join the MSSMP program to help solve the urgent global climate change crisis. 

During her time in the program, she was able to achieve first-place awards for projects submitted in the Green Generation Showcase at ��ɫ����. She also gained a valuable internship opportunity with the Better World Group (BWG), an organization that helps advocate for progressive environmental policies in California. Her internship with BWG resulted in a job offer and she now works with them as a full-time research Analyst and Associate. 
For Palmer, one of the most valuable components of the program was its professional advisory board, which is composed of individuals working in sustainability-related positions in various sectors.  

Through mentorships with board members, Palmer was able to learn about sustainable procurement and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), two areas of focus in her final capstone project. 

 Palmer is proud to be part of the first cohort and has great expectations for future program graduates. “There’s work to be done,” says Palmer, “and we need bright and resilient young minds at the center.”